THE FIRST DAYS OF THE SOUTH SUDAN RED CROSS
As they headed off for their first assignment, overseeing the celebrations that accompanied the official birth of the new Republic of South Sudan, volunteers from the South Sudan Red Cross sang out: "Our new Red Cross is born to shine in the heart of Africa. Let's work for humanity!" Photo: Conor Ashleigh.
THE FIRST DAYS OF THE SOUTH SUDAN RED CROSS
As they headed off for their first assignment, overseeing the celebrations that accompanied the official birth of the new Republic of South Sudan, volunteers from the Southern Sudan Red Cross sang out: "Our new Red Cross is born to shine in the heart of Africa. Let's work for humanity!" Photo: Conor Ashleigh.
THE FIRST DAYS OF THE SOUTH SUDAN RED CROSS
However, before they can be given the responsibility of looking after the crowd, the group of men and women volunteers must undergo rigorous first aid training under the supervision of Red Cross staff. Photo: Conor Ashleigh.
THE FIRST DAYS OF THE SOUTH SUDAN RED CROSS
Voluntary service is one of the seven fundamental principles of the Red Cross Red Crescent movement. In a time of crisis, they should be able to keep a cool head, know when to assist - and when to step back - and be ready to spring into action when they're needed. During these training sessions, friendships are made and strengthened. Photo: Conor Ashleigh.
THE FIRST DAYS OF THE SOUTH SUDAN RED CROSS
In the heat of the day, volunteers know that a lot of the people they treat will be victims of sun stroke and dehydration and so practice the vital art of carrying those affected to a cooler place and providing hydration. Photo: Conor Ashleigh.
THE FIRST DAYS OF THE SOUTH SUDAN RED CROSS
Being aware of the effects of the sun and the midday heat, means volunteers also know when to take a break from their training. Photo: Conor Ashleigh.
THE FIRST DAYS OF THE SOUTH SUDAN RED CROSS
Red Cross volunteers rehearse the new national anthem for the Republic of South Sudan. It will be sung in the compound at the ceremony when the new Red Cross flag is lifted to mark the official inception of the South Sudan Red Cross. Photo: Conor Ashleigh.
THE FIRST DAYS OF THE SOUTH SUDAN RED CROSS
On the day of the ceremony, volunteers will be both stretcher-bearers and first aiders. In preparation, these first aid kits contain everything they will need to deal with the kind of minor injuries you might expect during celebrations. Photo: Conor Ashleigh.
THE FIRST DAYS OF THE SOUTH SUDAN RED CROSS
With training over, it's time to put those skills to the test during the ceremony on 9th July, 2011 that will mark the official beginning of the country. Photo: Conor Ashleigh.
THE FIRST DAYS OF THE SOUTH SUDAN RED CROSS
It wasn't long before the first casualty of the day needed the assistance of the volunteers from the South Sudan Red Cross. A number of people in the crowd collapsed due to heat exhaustion and dehydration. Photo: Conor Ashleigh.
